: one that arranges a match
especially : one who tries to bring two unmarried individuals together in an attempt to promote a marriage

matchmaking

2 of 2

noun (2)

1
: the action of bringing about a marriage especially by scheming
2
: the action of arranging or promoting sports matches

Examples of matchmaker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The rom-com Materialists threw a matchmaker into a love triangle with a perfect-on-paper rich guy and the broke schlub who was her true soulmate. Judy Berman, Time, 8 July 2026 Dondi watched her group of matchmakers ebb, with some volunteers going back to their lives. Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Money, 6 July 2026 Kessler’s mother Andrea played matchmaker two years ago, taking a photo of Stockard during an Auburn basketball game and sending it to her son. Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026 Matilda reportedly played matchmaker for the couple, who have now welcomed three kids together, including their son Hart, a baby born in 2022, and another baby who arrived in 2025. Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for matchmaker

Word History

Etymology

Noun (2)

match entry 1 + making, gerund of make entry 1

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1638, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of matchmaker was in 1638

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Matchmaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/matchmaker. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

matchmaker

noun
: one that arranges marriages

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